A NEW secret weapon…smoked salmon!  This tasty meal might be one of the best muscle-building foods on the planet.  I used this food extensively while going through my academy, as well as during my times working graveyard shifts.

Take all of the salmon basics: omega-3 fatty acids, the antioxidant astaxanthin.  It fights inflammation, improves cognition, improves immune function, and reduces oxidative stress.  This fish is a true “can’t miss” food.  Smoking the fish makes this meal ready to eat any day of the work week.

There is debate over wild caught or farm raised, both concerning nutritional value and environmental/corporate concerns.  Wild caught has been shown to have a better nutritional profile.  I won’t get into the second part as that can end up being a bit too political.  I will state that numerous experts in nutrition have sided with wild caught over farmed…the taste is better as well.

I will state that farm raised salmon typically contains high levels of dangerous compounds like PCBs, dioxins, and pesticides.  For the long run, that is something to keep in mind.

Either would be a better bet than the typical US diet, so don’t split too many hairs on that one.  Farm raised can also be a more affordable option, especially in today's economy.

Here is what you will get with a 4 oz serving of smoked salmon:

Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon

1. Calories: 180 kcals
2. Protein: 26 gms
3. Carbs: 0 gms
4. Fat: 8 gms

Farm Raised Atlantic Smoked Salmon

1. Calories: 250 kcals
2. Protein: 26 gms
3. Carbs: 0 gms
4. Fat: 16 gms